Crock Pot Angel Chicken Recipe
Introduction
This Crock Pot Angel Chicken recipe delivers tender, flavorful chicken bathed in a creamy sauce that’s perfect for busy nights. With simple ingredients and minimal hands-on time, it’s a comforting meal that pairs beautifully with angel hair pasta.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (or chicken thighs for extra richness)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil
- 4 oz Cream Cheese (low-fat or Neufchâtel works for a lighter version)
- 3 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (margarine can be substituted)
- 10.5 oz Cream of Chicken Soup (low or no sodium versions recommended)
- 3 cloves Garlic, freshly minced
- ¾ cup Chicken Broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 packet Good Seasons Dry Italian Salad Dressing Mix (or homemade Italian seasoning)
- 16 oz Angel Hair Pasta (penne or gluten-free pasta can be used)
- Chopped Fresh Parsley, for garnish
- Cracked Pepper, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional but recommended)
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat vegetable oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Remove from heat.
- Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, cream of chicken soup, minced garlic, chicken broth, and dry Italian dressing mix. Whisk together until smooth and creamy.
- Step 3: Lightly coat the inside of your crock pot with non-stick spray. Place the seared chicken at the bottom, then pour the creamy sauce mixture evenly over the chicken.
- Step 4: Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Step 5: Just before serving, cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions. Drain well and toss with the sauce or serve on the side.
- Step 6: Serve the chicken whole or shredded over the pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley, cracked pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier, richer flavor.
- Substitute margarine for butter to reduce saturated fat.
- Try gluten-free or whole wheat pasta to suit dietary preferences.
- Fresh basil can be added as a garnish for extra aroma and flavor.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce thickens too much.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts for even cooking and safety. If using frozen, cook the chicken separately first or adjust crock pot timing accordingly.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Substitute cream cheese and butter with dairy-free alternatives and use a dairy-free cream of chicken soup. Check labels to ensure all ingredients meet your needs.
PrintCrock Pot Angel Chicken Recipe
This Crock Pot Angel Chicken recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken breasts simmered in a creamy Italian-inspired sauce, perfect for a comforting family dinner. The slow-cooked chicken is paired with delicate angel hair pasta and garnished with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese for an effortlessly elegant meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-4 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1.5 lbs Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (can substitute with chicken thighs for extra richness)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (for searing)
For the Sauce
- 4 oz Cream Cheese (low-fat or Neufchâtel for a lighter version)
- 3 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (margarine can be used as a substitute)
- 10.5 oz Cream of Chicken Soup (low or no sodium recommended)
- 3 cloves Garlic, freshly minced for best flavor
- ¾ cup Chicken Broth (preferably low-sodium)
- 1 packet Good Seasons Dry Italian Salad Dressing Mix (or homemade Italian seasoning)
For the Pasta
- 16 oz Angel Hair Pasta (substitute with penne or gluten-free pasta if preferred)
For Garnish
- Chopped Fresh Parsley, to taste
- Cracked Pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan Cheese, optional but recommended
Instructions
- Sear the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper, then sear each side for 2 to 3 minutes until a golden brown crust forms. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, cream of chicken soup, freshly minced garlic, chicken broth, and dry Italian dressing mix. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Assemble in Crock Pot: Lightly spray the inside of the crock pot with non-stick spray. Place the seared chicken breasts at the bottom of the crock pot, then pour the creamy sauce mixture evenly over the chicken, ensuring it is well coated.
- Slow Cook the Chicken: Cover the crock pot with the lid and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) as measured with a meat thermometer.
- Cook the Pasta: Just before serving, cook the angel hair pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly.
- Serve: Serve the chicken whole or shredded over the cooked angel hair pasta. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, cracked pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese as desired. You may also toss the pasta with some of the sauce from the crock pot for extra flavor.
Notes
- Optional: Garnish with fresh basil for added flavor and aroma.
- For a lighter version, use low-fat cream cheese and low-sodium broth and soup.
- You can substitute chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer and more flavorful dish.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee food safety.
- If desired, use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keywords: Crock Pot chicken, slow cooker chicken, creamy chicken recipe, angel hair pasta, Italian chicken, comfort food, easy dinner
